The WHO has declared a top-level emergency in Myanmar following a devastating earthquake that resulted in significant casualties, requesting $8 million for urgent relief efforts. Rescuers continue their search for survivors in Myanmar and Bangkok, where a skyscraper collapse added to the disaster’s toll. International aid teams from China, Hong Kong, and India are assisting in relief operations amid ongoing health risks.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the recent earthquake in Myanmar as a top-level emergency, urgently requesting $8 million in funding. The funds are essential for saving lives and preventing potential disease outbreaks within the next 30 days. The earthquake has resulted in significant loss of life and infrastructure damage, especially in the city of Mandalay where rescue efforts are ongoing despite aftershocks.
In Myanmar, current reports indicate approximately 1,700 fatalities, with an additional 3,400 individuals suffering injuries and around 300 people still unaccounted for, as per the ruling junta. The earthquake struck just northwest of Sagaing, followed closely by a 6.7-magnitude aftershock, wreaking havoc in Mandalay, which is home to over 1.7 million residents.
In neighboring Bangkok, Thailand, city officials have confirmed at least 18 deaths, with 33 individuals injured and 78 more missing due to the collapse of a 30-storey skyscraper under construction during the quake. Rescue teams are engaged in frantic searches for survivors trapped beneath the rubble.
Internationally, various countries are mobilizing aid efforts. China has dispatched an 82-member rescue team to Myanmar, with a second team of 118 members reported to arrive shortly after. Meanwhile, Hong Kong has sent a 51-person team along with two search and rescue dogs and specialized equipment to assist in the rescue operations. Additionally, an Indian aid flight has landed in Myanmar with more aid flights scheduled.
The WHO has activated its emergency response, utilizing its logistics hub in Dubai to prepare supplies for trauma injury treatment. Given the high number of casualties and the limited surgical capacity in Myanmar, there is a rising concern regarding infection risk and potential disease outbreaks, especially in the aftermath of such a devastating natural disaster.
In summary, the Myanmar earthquake has precipitated a grave humanitarian crisis, prompting immediate action from the WHO and various international rescue teams. Significant casualties and infrastructural damage have been reported in both Myanmar and Thailand, and immediate funding is urgently needed to address the subsequent health risks and support recovery efforts. Comprehensive global aid initiatives are underway to provide essential assistance to the affected regions, emphasizing the need for continued support and resources.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
